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This flat edge also provides some tactile control functionality, as you can double-tap it to toggle between settings. When we tested it, we found it adds a few nifty features onto the design of the original Apple Pencil, some of which are ridiculously simple, but very welcome – for instance, a flat edge that means the Pencil is no longer prone to rolling off flat surfaces. There isn't any compatibility crossover between the two – an individual iPad will only work with one or the other (you can scroll to the bottom of this article for more information on what works with what).īut let's talk about the Pencil 2. The Apple Pencil 2 isn't exactly a replacement for the original Apple Pencil, but instead is an updated version for the higher-end iPads. If you want a tool for digital art but are not yet sold on buying an iPad, then our guide to the best drawing tablets is worth a read, and we also have a handy guide to the best power banks – as digital drawing can be very power-intensive. If you're determined not to use Apple's own stylus, then our guide to the best Apple Pencil alternatives will be of help as we have even more options from third-party manufacturers. You can also scroll to the bottom of this article for our pointers on what to look for when selecting a stylus, as well as some information on which Apple Pencil works with which iPad, as this can get more than a little confusing. That's why in this guide we've included a broad selection of syluses, including both Apple's own and a host of third-party alternatives. If all you're going to do with your stylus is jot down a few notes, browse the internet and maybe play a few games, then you absolutely don't need to pay Apple Pencil money – something much cheaper will do the job. Any Apple Pencil, even the older version, comes with a significant price tag, and there are lots of cheaper third-party alternatives if you don't need the cutting edge in terms of functionality. Offering the most sophisticated and intuitive drawing experience possible on an iPad, these pressure-sensitive pens are the best your money can buy.īut that's just it – money.
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We'll get this out of the way – and sorry for the spoiler – but the absolute best stylus you can buy for an iPad is going to be one of Apple's own, the Apple Pencil or its recent 2nd-generation, the Apple Pencil 2 (we should know, we've tried them).
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